Every one (over the age of 18) should have a will. The absence or presence of this document will affect what happens to all the deceased's property (known as the 'estate') after his/her death.

The will is a declaration of the intention of the person making the will (testator). There are rules that must be complied with before a will is deemed to be valid. Saracens will assist you in the drafting of the will, the appointing of any executors, trustees or guardians and the setting up of any trust as well as the inevitable tax considerations you may have.

If you have been granted probate, it means you have been given legal responsibility for managing the financial affairs (bank accounts, property and other assets) of someone who has died.

The trouble is that when you are bereaved and struggling to come to terms with the loss of someone dear to you, the everyday details of life and the process of obtaining probate can become a real burden.

Saracens can take that strain away from you. We have the experience in administering what needs to be done.

If a will has been made, the named executors will be granted probate. If not, then the next of kin can apply for letters of administration, giving them the power to act on behalf of the deceased.

The executors or administrators can:

gather in assets, close bank accounts, claim insurance money;

sell property or shares;

run the deceased's business, appoint someone to do so or sell the business interests;

pay off debts and settle tax affairs with the Inland Revenue;

distribute bequests specified in the will - or if there isn't one, distribute assets according to the law.

If you turn to Saracens for help, we will:

advise you promptly and efficiently, explaining in clear language what needs to be done and how long it might take;

keep you up-to-date on what is happening - and use the latest computer technology to support smooth progress;

in many cases give you a fixed-fee quote for our work, or, in more complex situations, offer a realistic estimate of the cost.

We all like to think we are in control of our affairs and every day finances. Making a will gives you the same peace of mind because it states clearly your final wishes. It is also an important caring gesture to your family and friends, relieving them of possible worry about what to do for the best, when you are no longer there to help.

Our experienced advisers have helped many people to make a will at face-to-face meetings using language everyone can understand. The use of the latest computer technology means that the necessary documents are produced quickly and accurately.

We help you to ensure that your wealth goes to your family and loved ones.

There are many reasons for making a will including:

having just got married;

having children who would need to be looked after in your absence

not being married;

having recently divorced or will be doing so soon;

being a property owner;

owning all or part of a business;

having come into money;

concerns over paying inheritance tax.

When you make a will you can decide:

the executors who will sort out your affairs;

who will care for your children if they are aged under 18;

who will receive heirlooms or other specific items of property;

who will receive the rest of your money and upon what conditions;

whether you prefer cremation or burial and other issues such as donation of organs for transplant.

We offer a fixed fee for most straightforward wills and realistic estimates if you need more complex advice, for instance, on inheritance tax liability. Home or hospital visits can be arranged if appropriate